Destiny Calling by Will Mabbitt, Taryn Knight
Series: Embassy of the Dead, #3, #3
Published by Walker Books US on October 11, 2022
Pages: 240
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Destiny Calling is the third book in the spooky and scary (but not gruesome) series Embassy of the Dead by Will Mabbitt. In this novel, Jake is named the Chosen One, destined to kill Arkus, the son of the king of demons. Armed with a magical dagger and the help of his human friend, Sab, and his ghost friend, Cora, Jake goes on a quest to the Underworld to find this prince. Jake wrestles with not wanting to kill the prince but also feeling unsure he can defy his destiny. He also must contend with a traitor and a misunderstanding that makes him the target of all of the Underworld.

This fast-paced middle grade novel is part spooky adventure and part mystery. It is perfect for middle grade readers who want to read something scary but might not be ready for a true horror story. It’s a pretty quick read with unexpected twists and turns and illustrations scattered throughout the novel. There is some humor, as well, to lighten up the sometimes dark plot. Readers who enjoyed the first two books in the series will no doubt enjoy this one as well.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library